Diabetes is a condition whereby the body does not produce enough insulin or does not respond to insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas.
There are three main types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes – occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin. It usually starts in young people under the age of 30, including very young children and infants, and the onset is sudden and dramatic.
Type 2 diabetes – is caused when the insulin produced is either not enough or does not work properly. About 85 – 90 percent of all people with diabetes are type 2, and many people who have this condition are undiagnosed.
Most people with type 2 are over 40. They are usually overweight and do not exercise. Type 2 diabetes may be treated successfully without medication. Often loss of weight alone will reduce glucose levels. Eating patterns and exercise play important roles in the management of the illness.
Gestational diabetes – is a temporary condition that occurs during pregnancy. Both mother and child have an increased risk of developing diabetes in the future. High blood glucose levels over a long period of time can cause serious damage to the delicate parts of the body and lead to blindness, heart attackstroke, kidney failure, impotence and amputation.
Symptoms of diabetes:
– Urinating frequently
– Weight loss
– Frequently thirsty
– Extreme tiredness
– Lack of energy
– Blurred vision
– Tingling and numbness of feet
– Bruises and cuts are slow to heal
It is however possible that with type 2 diabetes, symptoms may not appear.
A person is particularly at risk if:
– they are over the age of 35
– having a family history of diabetes
– being overweight
-having high blood pressure
– having high cholesterol
One can take precautionary measures in preventing diabetes or managing it. Exercising, eating healthy foods, managing your weight, reducing your stress levels and not smoking are ways of controlling and preventing diabetes. You can also check your glucose levels regularly at your nearest clinic.
